It is the Chamber's honor to recognize its 2009 Business Person of the Year. This award is given annually to an individual who is involved in the Webster community, is an outstanding leader, and who makes significant contributions to the Chamber of Commerce. Our 2009 recipient embodies all of these characteristics, in fact the words, Caring, Sharing, Accomplished, Loyal, Honest, Devoted, and Successful dominate his nomination.
Our 2009 recipient is a life-long Webster resident with a life-time of service. His love for and pride in the Webster community is evident in everything he does, from his successful business located in the heart of the village, to his enjoyment of Webster's assets; you can find him fishing in the creeks in the summer and hiking along its trails in the fall.
He is an active volunteer in the Village Business Improvement District who contributes his time and talents to the success of such annual events as Village Days and more recently, Webster's Comfort Care. For the past two years our 2009 recipient, Kevin Smith, has served as the fund-raising chair for Webster Comfort Care, a home that provides comfort and support during a resident's final months.
Kevin is always ready to lend a hand, give advice, or share his knowledge. He is currently mentoring a Webster high school student who is working on a senior project about the insurance industry.
Kevin and his brother Tom are proud to carry on the Gerard P. Smith Insurance Agency's strong tradition of service and value begun by their father in 1966. Kevin is a Certified Insurance Counselor and has been a licensed agent since 1977. He has also served on the Board of the Independent Insurance Agents Association of Monroe County.
Kevin began his service to the Chamber of Commerce as a member of several committees. He continues to serve on the Case for Business and recently completed a three-year term as a member of its Board of Directors. Kevin's role as "Chamber Cheerleader" is evidenced by the fact he is the most popular and faithful greeter at our monthly breakfasts. His decisions are always guided by what is best for the Chamber and its members. Kevin is a strong believer in the Chamber's value and consistently markets membership to his business associates.
Those who know Kevin also know he is not all work and no play. He loves a good game of golf and continues to play soccer with a group of "seasoned" athletes between 30 and 60! He is known for his keen sense of humor but you may be surprised to know he is also an accomplished harmonica player!
Kevin has a great time doing everything he does. He, his wife-Deborah, parents, and four brothers continue to live in Webster. Through his community involvement, business endeavors, and enjoyment of what Webster has to offer, Kevin has developed many meaningful relationships. For his hard work, dedication, and his many accomplishments, the Webster Chamber of Commerce is proud to name Kevin Smith its 2009 Business Person of the Year. Congratulations!